XC Skiing Riverdale Park post "Blizzard" of 2015

Though Winter Storm Juno was not as serious as expected, she still dumped enough snow for school cancellation and fresh cover for skiing. Though Van Cortlandt Park is a great place to ski, I was eager to explore some new territory. Plus, my car was snowed in, and the thought of walking all the way down the hill--let alone back up it--seemed daunting.

So I took an afternoon ramble through sunny Riverdale to hit the park that runs along Palisade Avenue. While I got more funny looks than usual striding the sidewalks in my spandex and with skis over my shoulder, it was more than worth it. It was only a 15 minute walk before I could click into my bindings and hear the distinctive sound of ski on snow.

Gazing and gliding

I saw fellow skiers for the first time in the Bronx. We made small talk about how pleasant the day was. Mostly, I took in the calm afternoon light while looking over the Hudson River at the snowy Palisades in NJ. I'd like to ski over there someday too, but for now, just gazing was enough.


After two good sessions this weekend, I was proud to clock my fastest average so far this season. While it wasn't my longest ski, it was my most challenging in terms of elevation gain. I attribute the increased speed somewhat to more fitness for the sport, but mostly to faster conditions. The snow was crunchy and firm, making for quick runs along level ground, and some nice downhill sections.

Though not as extensive as Van Cortlandt Park, this was still a worthwhile place to ski. The view really is peaceful and occasionally a Metro-North or Amtrak train rolls through below, its whistle lending the whole park a 19th-century feel.